Category: Residential

Many homeowners invest in a water filtration system because they want better water for drinking. While this is one of the major benefits, there are so many other advantages of having one installed in your home.

1. Better Tasting Water

Let’s start with the obvious one – a water filtration system helps provide better tasting water. It helps your water taste better because it eliminates the risks of your water being contaminated with harsh and toxic chemicals.

2. Purified Water

A water filtration system provides purified water for daily activities like drinking, cooking, washing fruits and veggies, taking showers, cleaning, laundry and more.

3. Extends Lifespan Of Appliances

Appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, showers, toilets, faucets, fixtures, and more will get to enjoy a longer life if you use filtered water. Unfiltered water is full of sediment, heavy metals, chemicals chlorine and more which can cause pipe damage, worn faucets, and clogged drains.

4. Keeps Out Heavy Metals

Not only can a water filtration system keep heavy metals out of your water, but it can also keep the good minerals from the water. Luckily, it doesn’t strip everything from your water – just the stuff you don’t want.

5. Filters Out Chemicals

Many homes have contaminated and polluted water that isn’t safe for consumption. A water filtration system will filter out all of these dangerous contaminants like chlorine, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals.

6. Lessens Corrosion

Does your water have discoloration? Do you notice stains around your appliances, fixtures and sinks? These could be signs of corrosion in your pipes. If not addressed, rust and corrosion in your pipes can cause a series of health problems.

7. Saves You From Water Pollution

In instances when your local water supply becomes polluted, you will be glad you have your own system. You can have peace of mind knowing that you never have to worry about water pollution.

8. Eliminates Water Problems

Unsightly stains, tastes and odors can really turn you off from drinking and using your water. Have you ever taken a sip of your water and it smells fishy or tastes like chlorine? These are signs of impurities. If you notice any stains, awful tastes and foul odors, it’s likely due to bacteria in your water.

9. Helps The Environment

Did you know we use about 40 billion plastic bottles a month in the United States? A water filtration system significantly reduces your dependence on plastic bottles, saving you money and also helping the environment.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Water Filtration System Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your water filtration system needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

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If you plan on hosting people at your home this holiday season, then the last thing you want to deal with is a plumbing emergency. Let’s be honest, plumbing troubles can be very draining – no pun intended. Luckily, there are ways you can avoid this! Here are some tips to avoid a plumbing emergency this holiday season.

1. Don’t Put THAT Down The Drain

2. Use Your Garbage Disposal Correctly

As mentioned briefly above, putting certain items down the drain can really wreak havoc on your plumbing. Contrary to popular belief, a garbage disposal isn’t a replacement for a garbage can. It may be easier to toss leftovers down the drain, but we strongly advise against this. You should always throw leftovers in the trash or compost pile to avoid clogging your drains. Garbage disposals are designed to grind up small bits of food. You want to make sure you are always using cold water when your garbage disposal is turned on, and only grinding up waste that won’t clog or damage your unit.

3. Create A Shower Schedule With Guests

4. Prepare Your Bathroom

5. Schedule Plumbing Maintenance

Scheduling plumbing maintenance before you have a house full of guests this holiday is a great way to help you avoid a plumbing emergency. Your plumber will be able to catch problems early and offer solutions to fix them before they really cost you – in more ways than one! Make sure to schedule yours today.

Got A Plumbing Emergency? Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Plumbing Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your plumbing needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance appointment by visiting us online here.

The post Tips To Avoid A Plumbing Emergency This Holiday Season appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

If you find that your cooling system isn’t working as it should, it may be time to repair or replace it. You can usually tell whether or not it’s time to repair or replace your HVAC system based on how often you need repairs, how your system is, and what kind of repairs you need to get it working right again. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common indicators that your HVAC needs repairing or replacing, so you can make an informed decision on how to proceed with your home’s air conditioning system.

Temperature Fluctuations

Older, less efficient, systems are more likely to get stuck in an on-and-off cycle of heating and cooling, which can wear down your system much faster. You may notice that it takes longer for your house to cool down than it used to. The fix could be as simple as weather stripping or repairing a hole in the attic. If you know that your home is sealed properly, a repair may not be an option. If you’re having problems maintaining consistent temperatures, it’s definitely time for an upgrade.

Foul Odor

As your air conditioner runs, it emits smells that can take away from a pleasant environment. If you notice that there is a bad odor coming from your A/C, it’s possible that you have mold growing in your ductwork. You should have an expert come out to investigate and assess what needs to be done next. In some cases, they may recommend a repair; in others, replacement may be required. That depends on several factors including the age of the unit, quality of installation, and usage patterns.

Air Leaks

Leaks are a silent killer in any cooling system. They occur when there is a hole in ductwork, a unit is poorly insulated, or rusted hangers are present, among other things. These leaks can account for up to 40% of your home’s cooling load during the summer months. Think about how much energy that wastes! Leaks will also contribute to dust build-up, leading your air filter life cycle to be shorter and wear on other parts of your system quicker. If your home is currently experiencing an air leak, call the professionals at Cool Touch. It may be as simple as sealing the leak but if the leak is catastrophic, then you may need a replacement. 

Lack of Maintenance

A poorly maintained HVAC system can lead to extreme temperature swings, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. If you have neglected to perform maintenance on your system, you will most likely need to replace your system earlier than most. This is because a lack of proper maintenance increases wears on components like motor bearings, filters, belts, and more. These components are all designed to work for a certain amount of time before they need a replacement; however, if they are not replaced when needed, they will likely fail prematurely. This means that you may find yourself in a situation where your system needs to be replaced sooner than you expected, costing more down the road.

Your System Is 10 Years or Older

Since newer systems are more energy efficient and operate quieter, they make homes and buildings more comfortable than older systems. Older units also have a greater risk of failure due to wear and tear. In fact, a system that’s 10 years old can be twice as likely to break down as one that’s only 5 years old. If your system is ten years or older, it may be time for a new one!

Your System Needs Frequent Repairs

If your system is out of commission for a substantial amount of time, and it seems like there’s always something wrong with it, then maybe it’s time to consider replacing it. While repairs are an important part of keeping your equipment running optimally, too many repairs indicate there is a larger problem at hand. 

 

If your home is currently experiencing one of these problems listed above, it’s time to call the professionals at Cool Touch. Our team of experts will be able to assess your system and provide you with options on whether it is best to repair or replace your system. Give us a call today at 623-230-3658 and let us answer any questions you may have! 

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Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling Your Home

When your AC doesn’t supply you with cold air in the summer, it can be a stressful – and hot – time. That’s why it’s recommended to have your air conditioner serviced in the spring before summer rolls around, to ensure everything is in good working condition. However, if you find yourself without cool air this season, there could be many reasons why that is.

1. Incorrect Thermostat

If your thermostat is set incorrectly, you could be thinking your AC isn’t working when that’s not the case. Make sure your thermostat and your air conditioner are both turned on. Then, you’ll want to make sure your thermostat is set about 5 degrees cooler than your currently home’s temperature. At this point, you should be feeling the cool air blowing through the vents. If you don’t, then you may have another issue.

2. Clogged Air Filter

Your air filter should be changed every 1-3 months. If you notice inefficient cooling in your home, check to make sure your air filter isn’t clogged. The debris, dust, dirt and dander can all clog your filter, which will obstruct the airflow and cause your air conditioner to have to work harder to cool your space. The more clogged it becomes, the less air that can pass through so make sure you’re changing it frequently.

3. Dirty Outdoor Unit

Do you have an outdoor unit? Then, you may want to make sure there’s nothing covering it. Leaves and other debris can make your fan work harder. You should always make sure there’s at least 2-3 feet between your outdoor unit and any bushes, branches, or other items that have the potential to obstruct air flow. If you notice your outdoor unit is dirty and in need of a cleaning, schedule a professional cleaning today.

4. Your AC Isn’t the Right Size

Bigger isn’t always better. If you have an air conditioner that is too big, you may find that it shuts off quickly because it doesn’t have to run too long to cool a small space. This can lead to inconsistent temperatures. On the contrary, if your air conditioner is too small, it won’t be able to properly cool the size of your home. Not only that, but you’ll likely be dealing with higher energy bills as a result. To make sure you have the right size AC unit for your space, schedule an appointment with a professional HVAC technician.

5. Refrigerant Leaks

A refrigerant leak can be a serious issue. Not only can it cause your AC to not cool properly, but it can also cause refrigerant poisoning which can be life threatening if not treated right away. If you suspect you may have a refrigerant leak, it’s important you turn off your air conditioner right away and call a professional. Refrigerant doesn’t ever get used up, so if you notice the level has dropped at all then you can be fairly certain you have a leak.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your AC Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your AC needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Whether you need to schedule HVAC maintenance, repair, service, replacement, or installation, we’re the ones to call. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

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How To Know When It’s Time To Repair or Replace Your Sewer Line?

If you’re beginning to notice wet spots in your yard, or you have a funky smell that lingers around your property, then you could be dealing with a sewer line issue. Because your sewer line is a key component of your plumbing system, it can be extremely inconvenient when something goes wrong with it. It’s essential you keep an eye on signs that your sewer line may be in rough shape and in need of your attention. Here are all the ways you’ll know when it’s time to repair or replace your sewer line.

When To Repair Your Sewer Line

1. Foul Odors 

Smelling sewer around your home? Not only can this be unpleasant, but it could mean there’s a problem with your sewer line.

2. Soggy Yard

If there’s significant pooling in your yard, it could be due to your sewer line. Contact a plumber if you notice puddles in your lawn.

3. Slow Drains

Your drains shouldn’t take too long to empty. If they do, then you could have a clog or blockage in your pipes or even in your sewer line.

4. Strange Pipe Noises

Do your pipes gurgle and sound like a horror movie whenever you flush the toilet or wash your hands? Strange noises coming from your pipes could mean there’s a problem with your sewer line.

5. Rising Water Bills

If you’ve tried everything you can to lower your water bills and still notice an increase in price, then you could have a sewer line leak.

6. Pest Issues

Are animals suddenly super interested in your yard? Be mindful that this could be due to a break in your sewage pipes that is causing the increase in rodents and insects.

7. Inconsistent Water Level in Your Toilet Bowl

One day your toilet bowl may have a normal amount of water, but the next day it barely has any. This inconsistency could mean there’s a clog in your sewer system causing a backup.

When To Replace Your Sewer Line

1. Irreparable Damage

If the damage is significant enough, and there’s nothing you can do to fix it, then you will just need to replace it all together.

2. Old Age

Depending on the type of pipes you have, they can last anywhere from 50-75 years. However, if they are reaching their life expectancy, then it may be time to replace your sewer line.

3. Persistent Clogs

Are you noticing clogs no matter how many times you clear your drains? It could mean there’re more than just hair and debris build-up. It’s a sign your system needs to be replaced.

4. Water Fixture Malfunctions

Whether you’re noticing water backing up where it shouldn’t, clogged drains, or leaky pipes, you should consider having your sewer line checked by a professional.

5. Strange Noises

If significant enough, strange noises like clanking and gurgling coming from your pipes can indicate a sewer line replacement is on the horizon.

6. Tree Roots

One of the most common causes of sewage system issues is the intrusion and clogging of tree roots. Signs you have tree roots include sinkholes in your yard, slow drains, and gurgling toilets, to name a few.

7. Corroded Pipes

When a pipe corrodes, debris can build up in the pipes. This can cause clogs and frequent clogs can lead to damages to your plumbing system, ultimately resulting in a replacement sooner rather than later.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Sewer Line Repair and Replacement Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your sewer line repair and replacement needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

The post How To Know When It’s Time To Repair or Replace Your Sewer Line? appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

It’s HOT in Arizona. Our team has put together a few tips that will keep you COOL and ensure you make the MOST out of the summer season. Read the simple infographic below to find out.

The post Here’s How To Keep COOL In Arizona! appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

Mechanical vs. Electronic Air Cleaners: What’s The Difference?

If you’re in the process of researching the best air cleaner for your home, you’ve probably come across a couple different types: mechanical and electronic. Now begs the question: what’s the difference between the two? In this blog, we’ll cover the main differences between mechanical and electronic air cleaners.

What Are Mechanical Air Cleaners?

Mechanical air cleaners are designed to remove large particles, like dust, dander and pollen from your indoor air. They work by moving air over a media filter in which anything larger than a certain size is captured. The finer the filter, the smaller the particles that are captured. The most common type of mechanical air cleaner is the HEPA (high energy particulate filter) that captures contaminants as small as 0.3 microns or larger. It’s recommended that mechanical air filters be replaced every 3 months or so in order to remain effective.

What Are Electronic Air Cleaners?

Electronic air cleaners are sometimes known as ionizers or electronic air purifiers. They offer further protection by actively removing gas and smoke particles through a process called ionization. This process charges the particles in the air and separates them from the airflow. It only works well for those smaller particles, though, so it’s not effective alone for common allergens such as dust. Electronic air cleaners are 10 to 20 times more efficient at trapping particles in the air than your standard fiberglass HVAC filter.

So, What’s The Difference Between Them?

The main difference between mechanical and electronic air cleaners is that electronic cleaners aren’t filters at all, unlike mechanical air cleaners. Instead, electronic air cleaners create an electric field that ionizes the particles that try to travel through the air.

Another big difference between the two is that electronic air cleaners are designed to remove small particles, like gas and smoke, and mechanical air cleaners are designed to remove large particles, like dust and pollen. If your household has sensitive members or lots of pets, then electronic air cleaners may be the better choice. Most heating and cooling systems will come equipped with a mechanical filter that is “built in.”

Last but not least, another difference between the two is the cost. Electronic air cleaners tend to be more expensive than mechanical filters. However, electronic air cleaners also tend to be more effective – so many people find the cost to be worth it.

Depending on what you need, knowing these differences can help you make the best decision for your household.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Mechanical and Electronic Air Cleaner Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your mechanical and electronic air cleaner needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

The post Mechanical vs. Electronic Air Cleaners: What’s The Difference? appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

Causes Of Clogged Drains And How To Fix Them?

Clogged drains is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. There are many different causes of clogged drains, and many different ways to fix them.

1. Hair

Hair is a big culprit of clogged drains – especially in bathroom drains, like your shower and sink. If enough hair gets down in your drains, it can cause water backups and clogs.

2. Soap

We are all familiar with soap scum that can accumulate over time in bathroom and shower drains. When combined with other materials, like hair and dirt, it can lead to clogs.

3. Oil, Grease and Fat

Oil, grease and fat should never be washed down the drain as it solidifies and hardens in your pipes, ultimately causing clogs. Contrary to popular belief, even running hot water down the drain won’t resolve this problem.

4. Flushing Non-Flushable Items

The only items that should be flushed down a toilet are waste and toilet paper. Flushing non-flushable items, such as cotton balls, hair, toys, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels can cause clogs. Even flushable wipes aren’t the best, as they don’t disintegrate as well as regular toilet paper and could clog your pipes overtime.

5. Tree Roots

If you have a crack in your pipes, even if a very tiny crack, tree roots can get inside and cause blockages. Eventually, this will obstruct water flow and cause damage to your plumbing.

6. Too Much Toilet Paper

Even though toilets are meant to handle toilet paper, too much toilet paper can lead to clogs. If you’re using more than a few squares at a time and noticing frequent clogs, then this could be the cause of your problem.

7. Dirt and Sand

We see this a lot, especially in the summertime. You’re outside a lot, spending time at the beach or watching your kids play in the pool. After all the fun is over, it’s time to take a shower. If you don’t wash off before stepping into the shower or bath, all that dirt and sand can get into your drains and clog them.

How To Fix Your Drain Clogging Issues

Drain clogs can be vert inconvenient to deal with. Whether you’re noticing clogs in your kitchen, bathroom, or somewhere else around your house, make sure to ditch the store-bought drain cleaner. This stuff can really do more damage to your pipes. It’s best that you contact a professional drain cleaner to help clear your drains once and for all. After your drains are back to new, consider taking the following preventative measures to avoid these problems in the future:

• Hair: Use a hair strainer drain guard that will prevent any hair from going down the drain.
• Soap: To prevent soap scum from accumulating, use liquid soap instead of bar soap and keep your shower dry as much as possible.
• Oil, Grease and Fat: Refrain from ever pouring oil, grease or fat down your sink.
• Flushing Non-Flushable Items: Never flush anything that isn’t toilet paper or waste, including flushable wipes.
• Tree Roots: Cut trees around your sewer line, or create a barrier between your trees and sewer line.
• Too Much Toilet Paper: Use less toilet paper in a single flush.
• Dirt and Sand: Always wash off before stepping foot into the shower or bath.

Got Clogged Drains? Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Drain Cleaning Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your drain cleaning needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

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September is baby safety month and the perfect time to think about how best to babyproof your HVAC system! Young children and babies are curious, and want to touch anything and everything. To keep them out of harms way, here are some ways to protect them when it comes to your heating and cooling unit.

1. Secure Vent Covers

Do you have metal vent covers? Babies are attracted to shiny objects – like metal! Unfortunately, metal vent covers tend to have sharp edges that can cut little fingers and toes. Not only that, but if the covers aren’t secured tightly, your baby may be able to pull up on them. The last thing you want is for your baby to get cut, bruised, or injured in another way by running around with your vent cover. Secure it in place by screwing them down so they can’t be lifted up and taken apart by curious little hands.

2. Switch To Plastic Registers

The thought of a metal vent cover hurting your pride and joy got you feeling uneasy? There are other options – like ditching the metal vent covers and switching to plastic. Plastic vent covers still do its job, but without the risk of injury. With plastic registers, there’s also not really a need to screw them down so that frees up some of your time.

3. Toy-Proof Your Ducts

If you’re a parent, then you know all too well that you find toys and other objects in the most random places. By adding screening to your ductwork, you don’t have to worry about small little toys getting dropped in there.

4. Keep HVAC Remotes Put Away

Just like shiny objects, babies and young kids love to push buttons – literally. Make sure your HVAC remotes are stored away so your little one can’t grab it and mess with it. Not only can they turn your heat up and down and mess with your settings, but handling the remote unsupervised can be dangerous. The last thing you want is for them to accidentally swallow the remote battery and cause serious injury.

5. Be Careful With Your Outdoor Unit

While you don’t think much about your outdoor unit, if you have an “on-the-go” tiny little human running around, then you may want to start paying attention to it. The unit has sharp, spinning fan blades and live electrical wiring that are most certainly not babyproof! To avoid any potential harm, consider fencing in your outdoor unit or enclosing it in a lockage cage so it’s untouchable by your little one.

Need To Babyproof Your HVAC System? Cool Touch Is Here For All Your HVAC Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your HVAC needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your appointment by visiting us online here.

The post How To Babyproof Your HVAC System For Baby Safety Month appeared first on Cool Touch Air Conditioning & Heating.

When Should I Schedule My Furnace Maintenance?

You’ve probably heard time and time again from your local HVAC company that a furnace maintenance is important to schedule every year. Despite being told this, most homeowners forgo maintenance as long as the equipment is working as it should be. However, just like your car needs regular oil changes, your furnace needs regular tune-ups. In this blog, we will cover the importance of furnace maintenances, what a maintenance entails, and when you should schedule yours.

Why Are Furnace Maintenances So Important?

Furnace maintenances are important for a number of reasons. First, they prolong the life of your system. The better shape your furnace is in, the longer it will last. In fact, annual maintenance can prolong the life of your heating equipment by up to 10 years. Second, it’s important to the health of you and your family. Your furnace circulates warm air throughout your home, but if it’s not well-maintained, it’ll circulate dust and other particles, too.  By catching small problems before they become serious and costly, you’re improving your safety and comfort. Thirdly, it helps prevent repairs. Did you know up to 70% of heating repairs can be prevents with proper maintenance? Neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, breakdowns, and other problems that are easily avoidable. And last but not least, it helps improve efficiency. Your furnace needs annual maintenance to run efficiently. A dirty air filter, for example, can decrease efficiency because it restricts airflow and causes your entire HVAC system to work harder. That’s why we recommend you change your air filter every 1-3 months.

What Does A Furnace Maintenance Entail?

A professional HVAC technician will arrive at your home, ready to perform a number of maintenance tasks. They’ll make sure your unit is clean and free of mildew, mold, dust, pollen and other contaminants that impact your health and overall indoor air quality. They will check and clean the burners and heat exchanger, replace any dirty air filters, lubricate the blow fan motor bearings, and check the electrical connections throughout your system. Most technicians, like the ones at Cool Touch, will also check your ductwork and closely inspect your air handler to make sure they’re working properly, too. A furnace maintenance, when done professionally and properly, will ensure your system runs efficiently and remains effective for years to come.

So, When Should I Schedule Mine?

Now for the million dollar question – when should you schedule your annual furnace maintenance? The best time of year to schedule yours is before you need your furnace the most. A lot of homeowners wait until winter, or until an HVAC breakdown happens, which isn’t recommended. The last thing you want to deal with is no heat on the chilliest day of the year. We recommend you schedule your maintenance in the early fall and conversely, your AC in the early spring. That’s because HVAC technicians are less likely to be tied up and busy with emergency calls around these times and it shouldn’t be too difficult to get on the schedule right away.

Cool Touch Is Here For All Your Furnace Maintenance Needs In the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas!

We are here for all your furnace maintenance needs in the Phoenix and Prescott Valley Metropolitan Areas! For over 20 years, we have been your trusted home comfort specialists for all things HVAC, plumbing, and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance appointment by visiting us online here.

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